While others are curly and wavy hairstyles create variations in the direction, texture and shape of curls; Hollywood waves rely on uniformity. Instead of distinct curls, the final look creates the effect of a single wave running through the entire head of hair. It should look polished and sculpted. And although they are often styled on long hair, the Hollywood wave technique can be used on any length: celebrity stylist Renato Campora created Marcel's “flawless, timeless, healthy-looking Hollywood glamor bob with waves” for Selena Gomez on her wedding day earlier this year.
How to make Hollywood waves at home
Step 1: Prepare your hair.
If you are starting with damp hair, and especially if your hair naturally texturedtake Campora's note and blow it out with a large round brush. Before creating Gomez's bridal waves, he used the technique to “achieve a voluminous, sleek base” and hair that was “visibly shiny, bouncy and full of life.”
Whenever you plan to style your hair with hot toolyou need to start with clean, dry hair and apply heat protectant from roots to ends. “If your hair doesn't hold curl well, you can also add a texturizing spray,” says Avila. She also notes that a deep side part is best for creating a classic Hollywood wave look: “Use a fine-tooth comb to create a clean part on the side you prefer.”
Step 2: Section.
Since the final look of Hollywood waves is based on uniformity and precision, working with smaller sections will be easier. “Secure the top half and start curling the bottom layers,” says Avila. “Use approximately one-inch sections to create a sculptural Old Hollywood S-wave look.”
Step 3: Twisting.
Campora previously said that when creating Hollywood waves, he starts at the front of the head (just above the ear) and works his way down horizontal sections using a three-quarter-inch spring. curling iron. “Curl your hair in one direction, away from your face to the side with less hair,” recommends Avila. “Hold the curling iron vertically with the handle at the top so that when you release, the curl can fall down.”
Step 4: Secure.
There's never been a better time to try the old Hollywood trick: set your curls while they cool for extra hold and definition. “Once the section is evenly heated, pin the curl to your head to cool and let all curls cool completely before removing them,” Avila says.
Step 5: Comb into waves.
Forget all the negative things you've heard about combing your locks for this hairstyle. Here, this is the shortest path to achieving a Hollywood-level body. Once you've removed your pins, Avila recommends using a boar bristle brush to gently brush your locks in a downward motion. Continue until they are completely blended—flowing waves rather than isolated curls.
Step 6: Refine the wave structure.
Once you've brushed out your curls, “use your fingers or the tail of a comb to guide the 'crests of the waves,'” Avila says. For a more sculpted look, she recommends using a little pomade to set the shape.
Step 7: Install.
Once you're happy with your wavy design, spray your hair from mid-length to ends with a generous amount of medium-hold hairspray. To create even movement and a glossy effect, you'll probably want to use a little more than usual. As a finishing touch, Avila recommends running your hands over the surface of the hair with a little hair oil “for a beautiful, shiny result.”
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How to Add Volume to Your Waves
Unlike mermaid waveswhich have a loose boho look, Hollywood waves are big and voluminous. If you have naturally thin, thin or straight hair, it's worth taking a few extra steps to flatter your figure for this look. “To add more volume, you can prep your hair with a volumizing spray or mousse before blow-drying,” says Avila.
Another pro tip: “Once your curls are done, you can hold the part at the very top that has been separated by a lot of hair and spray hairspray at the base, holding it up until it dries,” she says. To accentuate the side volume with more hair and channel true Old Hollywood energy, you can also tuck or pin your hair behind your ear on the lighter side.
